UNAIR NEWS Prof. Diah Ariani Arimbi, S.S., M.A., Ph.D., delivered the keynote address at a seminar titled 淣avigating the Future: English Language Education with AI and the Evolving Role of Educators. The event was organized by the Faculty of Humanities (FIB), 51动漫 (UNAIR), in collaboration with Clarity English. As head of the doctoral program at FIB UNAIR, she presented her insights on Tuesday, Feb 3, 2026, at Majapahit Hall, ASEEC Tower, Campus B, Surabaya.
In her presentation, Prof. Arimbi examined how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming perspectives and practices in education, particularly in English language instruction. She outlined the expanding role of AI across multiple sectors, including its impact on the education system, while also addressing the challenges that come with rapid technological advancement.
A central theme of her discussion was the complex role of AI in education. While it enhances efficiency and accessibility, it also introduces a tension between technological optimization and the need to cultivate empathy within the learning process.
Maintaining the role of educators in the age of technology
Prof. Arimbi explained, 淎I brings significant benefits, including automated evaluation and personalized learning. However, it cannot replace the human element in education. Educators must reconsider their roles, whether to maintain traditional human-centered approaches or to incorporate AI as a complementary tool.
She further emphasized that, despite the efficiencies AI offers, the human presence must remain integral to education. Prof. Arimbi described AI as a partner rather than a replacement, noting that educators still play a critical role in nurturing empathy, fostering meaningful relationships, and guiding students personal development.
Ethical considerations in AI integration
Prof. Arimbi stressed that quality education is rooted in dialogue and interpersonal engagement. 淓ducation goes beyond delivering content; it involves building empathetic relationships with learners. Overreliance on technology risks diminishing the human dimension that is essential to meaningful education, she said.
In her closing remarks, she highlighted the importance of embedding ethical values and empathy into educational practices, particularly as AI becomes more prevalent. While acknowledging AI檚 growing influence, Prof. Arimbi emphasized the need to ensure that it supports inclusive and equitable learning environments.
淎s educators, we must remain grounded in ethics and empathy. Technology can enhance our work, but it must not replace the human values at the core of education, Prof. Arimbi concluded.
Author: Saffana Raisa Rahmania
Editor : Ragil Kukuh Imanto
